Montedio Yamagata face Vanraure Hachinohe on Sunday, Dec 13 at 5:00 AM in a basement battle that neither side can afford to lose. Both clubs are deep in the relegation picture in the J2 League, and defeat here could prove costly come the end of the season.

Montedio Yamagata come into this fixture struggling badly (1W 3L in last 5). Vanraure Hachinohe are struggling badly (1W 3L in last 5), making this a relatively even contest on current form. Montedio Yamagata won their last outing, while Vanraure Hachinohe suffered defeat — home advantage backed by momentum.

History strongly favours Montedio Yamagata here — they've won 3 of 3 previous meetings against Vanraure Hachinohe. Their last encounter ended in Vanraure Hachinohe won 1–2.

Verdict: This looks an evenly matched contest. Home advantage gives Montedio Yamagata a slight edge, but Vanraure Hachinohe are capable of causing problems. A draw would be a fair result.